Innovative simulation tool for special transports developed in Malmberget
What started as two separate projects quickly revealed a shared challenge: transporting large components down to the mine.
While there’s a 3.2-meter height limit at the mine entrance, this applies only to standard transports. Planning of the special transports is complex, costly, and time-consuming. It always requires different configurations, and involves variable factors like trailer type, tunnel profile, and infrastructure, often requiring custom wooden frames and test runs for each item—a process that doesn’t allow for easy replication with other components.
To improve this, a simulator has been developed using laser scan data and advanced modelling tools to streamline transport planning and testing. After conducting detailed scans of the main decline and other key areas, we processed the data into an accurate 3D mesh model of the mine’s infrastructure. These data also enabled us to update part of the missing contour lines and already help with other projects.
Building the simulator platform involved a blend of game development, 3D modelling, and physics simulation tools like Unity and Blender. After an initial feasibility test, the model was refined to ensure accuracy, closely matching the truck and trailer configurations used by LKAB. The simulator integrates advanced optimization procedures to improve performance, even supporting stand-alone VR headsets. This VR application debuted at the Massmin Conference in Kiruna, where attendees could experience driving a simulated truck down the mine’s main decline.
This project has opened new doors for us to conduct efficient, repeatable transport simulations, reducing costs and minimizing risks for each unique transport challenge.
“I consider this project a great success—not only for overcoming technical and logistical challenges but also for achieving it all within LKAB, without external help. This highlights the value of building strong relationships across LKAB’s diverse teams, even when their daily work differs from our own. You never know when someone’s specialization might help solve a unique challenge.”, says Dawid Puk, research engineer at the Mine Technology department in Malmberget.
